Stella Maris reports sharp increase in dangers for seafarers

Ahead of Sea Sunday on 14 July, global maritime charity Stella Maris notes that there has a sharp increase in seafarers affected by violence, as reported in the latest International Maritime Bureau (IMB) Piracy Report.

According to the IMB's data, violent incidents against seafarers have risen by 75% in the first half of 2024 compared to the same period last year. The report documents 96 crew members being taken hostage or kidnapped and an increase in the use of guns and knives during attacks, highlighting the escalating threat to maritime workers.

In addition to the cases raised in the IMB report, Houthi rebels in the Red Sea have stepped up attacks on commercial vessels, with 65 reported incidents in the past six months. (See: Maritime Spotlight )

"These figures are deeply troubling." said Tim Hill MBE, CEO of Stella Maris. "While there is a decrease in the overall number of piracy incidents, there is a worrying trend towards violent confrontation and increased threat to seafarers. When this is added to the continued violence in the Red Sea, it paints a grim picture of the realities faced by those working at sea."

"The safety of seafarers is paramount," Hill concluded. "This Sea Sunday, we strongly urge all governments to remember their fundamental duty to protect and support those who carry out their lawful business on the high seas. The international community must ensure the security of these essential workers who keep global trade flowing. Stella Maris will continue to provide much needed support to seafarers and their families in these challenging and turbulent times."

Every year churches around the world celebrate Sea Sunday on 14 July. It's a day for people to come together to pray for seafarers and fishers, and thank them for the vital role they play in all of our lives.

Seafarers and fishers play a vital role in all of our lives, but they often work in difficult, hazardous conditions. The number of crews abandoned by their employers is also still at a record high. Many are still being denied the right to leave their ships for even a short break away from the relentless noise and pressure onboard.

Many are reporting more stress and poorer mental health. Through its teams of port chaplains, Stella Maris, the maritime agency of the Catholic Church, provide practical help and pastoral care to seafarers and fishers in the UK and around the world.

Please encourage your parish to stand alongside seafarers and fishers so that they will always have a friend in port who they can turn to.

Your church can show your support for seafarers and fishers this Sea Sunday, and raise vital funds to ensure Stella Maris can support everyone who needs help..

Podcast

Ahead of Sea Sunday, Deacon Nick O'Neill, Senior Area Port Chaplain for the South of England and Wales for Stella Maris. discusses the joys and challenges of his job supporting seafarers with Fionn Shiner from the Catholic Media Office. Listen to the podcast here: www.cbcew.org.uk/sea-sunday/

For more information and to support Stella Maris, see: https://stellamaris.org.uk